To my sweet friend with a newborn,

Thank you.

This stage you’re in is the sweetest, most innocent, and challenging time.

The exhaustion and love are overwhelming I know—I feel like I was just there yesterday with my own kids.

Only, it wasn’t yesterday.

Even though I can close my eyes and remember those precious moments with my own newborns, it feels so far in the past. I love the age my kids are now, but I’m telling you, there’s something magical about those first few weeks of life. When your baby scrunches their body into a ball when you pick them up, when they flash you those first smiles, when they take up barely any room as they sleep all swaddled on your chest.

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As tired as you are with the round-the-clock feedings and diaper changes, I know you agree it doesn’t get much sweeter than cradling your 8-pound bundle of love who seems to grow bigger and quicker every day.

So when you are ready for visitors and you invite me into your home, I want you to know how much I truly appreciate you sharing this time.

Thank you for letting me hold your whole world in my arms.

Thank you for sharing sweet pictures.

Thank you for letting me help fold little socks and clothes.

Thank you for updating me on how you all have been doing.

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Thank you for letting me soak in baby cuddles.

Thank you for allowing me to marvel at your baby’s tiny features.

Thank you for sharing a few moments of the quickly fleeing newborn stage with me.

By inviting me into your chapter for a few moments, it reminds me of this time in my life.

Every minute is so valuable and the fact that you are willing to give a few of them to me is the most valuable gift you could ever give me.

This stage you’re in; it’s hard, it’s crazy, but it’s the most precious whirlwind.

As it flies by and you continue to share little moments with me, I just wanted you to know—thank you.